04928, Corinna, Maine Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 04928, Corinna, Maine is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

43.83 percent of residents in 04928 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 18.06 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Northern Light Sebasticook Valley Hospital with a distance of 12.04 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commute to Healthcare in ZIP Code 04928 (Corinna, Maine)

This report analyzes the overall health score for residents of ZIP Code 04928, focusing on healthcare access through transportation options. We assess drive times, public transit availability, ride-share services, and medical transport, providing a comprehensive view for those considering moving to Corinna and its surrounding areas. The ability to reach healthcare facilities efficiently is a critical determinant of overall well-being, and this evaluation aims to illuminate the realities of healthcare accessibility in this rural Maine community.

Corinna, Maine, is a small town, and its healthcare landscape reflects its rural nature. While the area boasts a strong sense of community, its healthcare infrastructure requires careful consideration regarding transportation. Distance to medical facilities, coupled with limited public transit, presents unique challenges. This analysis provides a realistic perspective, allowing residents and prospective movers to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Drive Times: The Primary Transportation Mode**

For most residents of 04928, personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation to healthcare. The nearest significant medical facilities are located in Dexter and Bangor, necessitating car travel. Driving times vary depending on the destination and the time of day, but generally, residents should anticipate the following:

To access healthcare in Dexter, residents typically travel along **Route 7**, a major thoroughfare connecting Corinna to the town. The drive is relatively short, usually taking around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Dexter offers a local hospital and several primary care practices, making it a convenient option for routine medical needs.

Reaching Bangor, a regional hub with a wider array of specialized medical services, requires a longer journey. The most direct route involves taking **Route 2** east, a major highway that eventually merges with **Interstate 95**. The drive to Bangor can take anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions and the specific destination within the city. This longer travel time is a crucial factor for residents needing specialized care or emergency services.

Other destinations, such as Waterville, may also be considered for healthcare. This would involve traveling on **Route 202** or **Route 2** west, adding significantly to the travel time, potentially exceeding an hour. The condition of the roads, particularly during winter months, can further impact travel times and safety.

**Public Transit: Limited Options**

Public transportation options within 04928 and the surrounding areas are extremely limited. The absence of a robust public transit system significantly impacts healthcare access, especially for those without personal vehicles or who are unable to drive.

There is no dedicated bus service operating within Corinna. The availability of public transit to healthcare facilities is minimal, requiring residents to rely heavily on personal vehicles or alternative transportation methods. This lack of public transit presents a significant barrier to healthcare access for many residents, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those with limited financial resources.

**Ride-Share and Medical Transport: Filling the Gaps**

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are not readily available in Corinna or the immediate surrounding areas. The sparse population and geographic isolation make it challenging for these services to operate profitably. This further limits the options for residents who cannot drive or do not have access to a personal vehicle.

Medical transport services, however, are available and play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access. Several companies specialize in providing non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. These services typically require advance booking and may have specific eligibility requirements.

**Medical Transport Brands:**

* **MedStar Transportation:** Provides non-emergency medical transportation services throughout Maine, including the Corinna area.
* **Care Transportation:** Offers similar services, focusing on safe and reliable transport to medical appointments.
* **Local Ambulance Services:** In emergency situations, local ambulance services provide rapid transport to the nearest hospital.

These medical transport services are essential for residents who cannot drive or require assistance getting to their appointments. However, the availability of these services can be limited, and advance planning is crucial.

**ADA Accessibility:**

While specific details on ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility for medical transport services are variable, it is crucial to inquire about accommodations when booking. Most reputable providers offer accessible vehicles and trained personnel to assist individuals with disabilities.

**Overall Health Score Assessment**

The overall health score for healthcare access in 04928 is moderate, reflecting the challenges associated with rural living. While residents have access to healthcare facilities, the reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transit options create barriers for some.

The drive times to Dexter are relatively short, providing convenient access to primary care and local hospital services. However, the longer travel times to Bangor, coupled with the lack of ride-sharing and limited public transit, present significant challenges for specialized care and emergency situations.

The availability of medical transport services helps mitigate some of these challenges, but the need for advance booking and potential limitations in service availability must be considered.

**Recommendations for Improvement**

Improving healthcare access in 04928 requires a multi-faceted approach. Investing in public transit options, even if limited, would greatly benefit residents. Exploring partnerships with ride-sharing services to extend their coverage area could also enhance accessibility. Further, expanding medical transport services and ensuring their ADA compliance is crucial.

For those considering moving to Corinna, a thorough assessment of their healthcare needs and transportation capabilities is essential. Individuals with mobility limitations or those without access to a personal vehicle should carefully evaluate the available options and plan accordingly.

The overall health score in 04928 can be enhanced through community initiatives, advocating for expanded healthcare services, and supporting the development of transportation solutions. This will ensure that all residents have equitable access to the healthcare they need.